Day's persistence in entering the long-expired contest inspired Jacobs, who started up a long-distance friendship through texts and emails. The two pledged to get together in person, and the World Series — pitting the Cleveland Indians against the Chicago Cubs — offered the perfect opportunity.

"I called him and asked if he would be interested in being Topps' guest at Game 2. Darwin didn't hesitate and said yes," Jacobs said. "Darwin is such a good guy he volunteered to get himself to Cleveland, but I told him this one was on Topps."

As thanks for the plane ticket, Day "forced me to let him pay for" a couple of ballpark drinks, Jacobs said.

Tony Jacobs (right) of Topps Confectionery Brands and Darwin Day of Grand Prairie hang out before Game 2 of the World Series pitting Cleveland against the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday.

((Gideon Anstey))

The two arrived early at Cleveland's Progressive Field to take in some pregame atmosphere, take pictures and buy some souvenirs, Jacobs said.

Day, a transplanted former Yankees fan who now cheers for the Rangers and works part time giving tours at Globe Life Park, showed up wearing a Cleveland cap and a sweatshirt that read "Party at Napoli's," in homage to former Rangers and current Indians slugger Mike Napoli.

"This has been such a great story," Jacobs said. "In getting to know what a great guy Darwin is, how much of a baseball fan Darwin is and how historic this World Series happens to be — it seemed like a perfect part of the story for he and I to go to the game."

The Cubs, who haven't won a World Series title since 1908, defeated the Indians, 5-1, to send the series to Chicago tied at a game each.

Jacobs came away from the experience impressed with Day on several fronts.

"Darwin turned out to be exactly what he seemed from all our conversations — a thoughtful, interesting, creative guy who has a great sense of humor, is incredibly passionate about baseball and cares about people."

The two best buddies also talked about more get-togethers.

"I'm going to take him up on his offer to tour Rangers' Stadium," Jacobs said.